Abdominal ultrasounds have a large potential to help in clinical diagnosis of a number of conditions. Though the list below talks of individual organs and conditions, an abdominal ultrasound would include assessment of all the below in one session.

Biliary System

Comprises the gall bladder and bile ducts. Ultrasound can be used to look for gall bladder infection, chronic irritation, gall bladder stones or blockages in the bile ducts.

Kidneys

Ultrasound can be used to look for malformations of the kidney structure, kidney cysts, stones, masses, blockage in urine flow, swelling of the kidneys and scarring too.

Aorta

The main artery leading from the heart to the rest of the body. Ultrasound can be used to look for aortic aneurysms, a very dangerous weakening and ballooning of the artery that if left unchecked can be potentially fatal.

Spleen

Swelling of the spleen can itself cause a number of problems but is also often the consequence of a number of conditions ranging from liver cirrhosis to blood disorders. Splenic ultrasounds are thus invaluable in the work up of such cases.

Pancreas

Situated very deep in the abdomen it is not easily visualised, but with proper preparation may also be assessed for swellings and growths.

Preparation required for an abdominal ultrasound

You need to be fasted, no food or drink, for 6 hours to create the optimal conditions for a clear abdominal ultrasound.